ESPN believes the Cincinnati Bengals could be a fit for four-time Pro Bowler Matthew Judon this offseason. According to reports, he’s one of the best pass rushers left available and he might fit well into the Bengals. Cincinnati has a lot of moving pieces this offseason despite giving Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase contract extensions. However, Judon could be a solid piece in this defense as long as they can figure out a way to extend Trey Hendrickson.
Earlier this offseason, current linebacker Germaine Pratt requested a trade in no surprise as he’s entering the final year of his contract. Judon could be a solid low-budget edge rusher, especially after the potential Trey Hendrickson extension leaving the Bengals no money to work with. Originally selected in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, the former Grand Valley State product became one of the most versatile edge rushers for the Baltimore Ravens in the league. Judon has been depleting after requesting a trade last year from the Patriots even though he had some type of climb in the second leg of the season.
The pass rusher is projected to sign a one-year deal since he may have to prove he has more gas in the tank. Entering age 33, the linebacker could intrigue plenty of interest until after the NFL Draft but these two teams could sign him if the Bengals don’t.
ESPN: Bengals Named Fit for Four-Time Pro Bowler Matthew Judon – Ravens, Chargers Likely to Intervene
Reunion in Baltimore?
The Baltimore Ravens offense finally has a legitimate veteran presence in their wide receiver room after signing DeAndre Hopkins. Last offseason, the team rebuilt its running back room so it’s been building blocks from there to push for Super Bowl contention. Derrick Henry has been solidifying the entire backfield but there hasn’t been a spokesperson in the locker room for the edge rush. The team lost Jadeveon Clowney last year and while he was just one part of the team, it might be why the defense was off-balance the entire 2024 campaign.
Judon won’t drastically change this entire defense but since he already knows this system, he could be the missing ingredient. Trenton Simpson hasn’t been explosive and to no fault of his own, he’s still young and developing. Kyle Van Noy and Roquan Smith need help in the pass rush and Judon could easily fit in this defense even if they get him involved as a rotational pass rusher. He might be getting older but that’s what the Ravens should be looking for if they have championship aspirations.
Veteran in the Trenches
While the pass defense was on point for the Los Angeles Chargers, the team is going to need work from this pass rusher. After releasing Joey Bosa, the team could be better off looking for a capable veteran to replicate what Khalil Mack is doing. This could be Mack’s final shot at a Super Bowl run and they can’t let it go to waste since he may retire after this season.
Judon isn’t going to get every sack but he does pressure well if he’s a part of a contender. As long as he can stay healthy, the Chargers should be in good hands to sign him on a bargain deal.
